On Wednesday, June 4, the Vermont Arts Council Board of Trustees elected new officers for FY2015 at the organization’s annual meeting. Irwin Gelber, of West Barnet, was elected chairman. Mr. Gelber replaces Barbara Morrow, of Sutton, who completed her term on the board.
Executive Director Alex Aldrich said, “We are greatly indebted to Barbara Morrow for her dedication to advancing the Council during her term as chair. Barbara brought strength, determination, and a terrific sense of humor to the board, and we will miss her! We look forward to the leadership of Irwin Gelber, a former concert pianist, music educator, and chef, who brings a life-long passion for the arts, deep knowledge of the Council, and his own special brand of humor.”
Ed Clarke, of Guildhall, and Edie Sawitsky, of North Bennington, were elected vice-chairs; and James Club, of Dorset, was elected treasurer. In addition Elisabeth Gordon, of White River Junction; Gayle Ottman, of Quechee; Peter Kriff, of South Burlington; and Bob Stannard, of Manchester Center, were elected to new terms as trustees by the membership of the Council.
Since 1964, the Vermont Arts Council has served the state as the primary provider of funding, advocacy, and information for the arts. The Council’s programs and services increase public awareness of the positive role artists and arts organizations play in communities and support opportunities for Vermonters to experience the arts in everyday life. The Vermont Arts Council is the only designated state arts agency in the U.S. that is also an independent, nonprofit membership organization.